Stories

Elite rider Thomas Zanotto has been racing for 10 years and completed the Baby Giro last year. He's now taking a break from pro cycling to start his own consultancy business. We caught up with him in Veneto to test ride a few bikes.

Palu: You recently tested some bikes for Palu in Padova, which one was your favourite?

Thomas: I’ve tested quite a few bikes actually but the best one is the Pinarello 65.1, with a custom paint scheme for Rui Costa’s World Championship victory in Firenze 2013.

Palu: How long have you been road cycling and how did you get into it?

Thomas: I’ve raced for 10 years and I started to race because my dad gave me my first racing bike, a blue Battaglin.

Palu: What is your best cycling memory?

Thomas: My best day was the last Giro Ciclistico d’Italia (Baby Giro), where I wasn't very fit for the entire tour, but I made it to the finish at Campo Imperatore.

Palu: What do you love about cycling competitively?

Thomas: While racing I love the last few kilometres when the adrenaline goes up especially when sprinting

Palu: What bike are you currently riding?

Thomas: I currently ride a Pinarello Dogma F10

Palu: Do you have any advice for young people looking to start racing?

Thomas: It’s a really tough sport and it doesn’t relent for a single metre, but with constant motivation you can achieve your objectives. I would say a huge passion is required!

Palu: Who is your cycling hero?

Thomas: My Idol is Peter Sagan because he always knows how to win and always does it in style.

Palu: Do you have any goals for the future?

Thomas: My goal this season is to win a race!

Palu: If you could pick one place to ride, where would you go?

Thomas: The Dolomites are the place I love to be and my favourite climb is Passo Pordoi.